Haley Combs

The Harder They Fall: A Black Western

I have never been a fan of Western TV shows or movies. My interest was never sparked by the repetitive themes that revolved around a revenge-seeking protagonist, a dirty money bandit, and quick-draw duels at high noon, all playing out to a folk music soundtrack. Even though these elements made Westerns the most booming genre of the 20th century, I never gave it the time of day. This was until I watched the new Netflix movie “The Harder They Fall.” The film dusted off the played-out Western themes and added a tasty flare of Black history and culture to the screen.

Released on Oct. 22, "The Harder They Fall" is a spectacular Black Western co-written by singer-songwriter and director Jeymes Samuel (also known as The Bullitts). The movie features a Black cast of well-known actors/actresses like Regina King as “Trudy Smith,” Idris Elba as “Rufus Buck,” Deon Cole as “Wiley Escoe,” LaKeith Stanfield as “Cherokee Bill,” and Jonathon Majors as protagonist “Nat Love,” whose character is based upon the actual 19th-century cowboy, Nat Love. 

You are unauthorized to view this page.

George Galbreath – Bridges: Through the Pandemic

On Friday, I got the opportunity to view George Galbreath’s art at his solo exhibition entitled "Bridges: Through the Pandemic" in Atlanta. Upon entering, I was greeted by a small venue with bright white walls, a brown concrete floor, and a high exposed ceiling. The structure of the space embodied the artistic and urban atmosphere of the city of Atlanta. It was an airy and open space ready to be decorated with the work of artists. The white walls welcomed the flamboyant and radiant colors of George Galbreath’s work. Many people observed his artwork throughout the night, Galbreath’s pieces created a one-of-a-kind experience by allowing guests to see the Coronavirus pandemic through his eyes as an educator and an artist.

You are unauthorized to view this page.

Hed Mayner: Traditions on the Runway

“I find my inspiration in some unusual places,” said Israeli fashion designer Hed Mayner. With a global reputation and designs sold to more than 50 boutiques in the world’s fashion capitals of Paris, Milan, Tokyo, New York, and Los Angeles, Mayner still enjoys working in his rundown studio in Israel. He adores the realistic lifestyle of everyday Israeli people making a way with a small budget. “Here, there’s the freedom to do what you want because there’s nothing here. There’s no history of fashion, really, so you can do what you want. It’s freeing,” he said in an interview with Times of Israel, a Jerusalem-based newspaper used to document developments in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world.

You are unauthorized to view this page.

Mariah the Scientist: Lessons in Love & Heartbreak

A fresh face has once again graced the music industry with her compelling storytelling and a sultry voice. Mariah Buckles, also known as Mariah the Scientist, creates music about the piercing feelings of heartbreak and unrequited love. The artist brings a new sound to the age-old experience of heartache and describes her music as a summation of her agony.

You are unauthorized to view this page.

Black and Mobile: The Power in Black Partnership

Running a small business that specializes in food service or retail can be difficult. Almost every day we see advertisements for small businesses that struggle to gain publicity. This applies to many growing Black-owned businesses, which according to CNBC have historically been found to be twice more likely to fail within the first 18 months in comparison to white-owned businesses.

You are unauthorized to view this page.

Grace Wales Bonner: Fashion with a Purpose

There is freedom in fashion. The earrings, jackets, shoes, and everything else in between that we wear to express ourselves are extensions of who we are and what we want to portray to the world around us. With fashion, we showcase our individuality and serve as everyday models for the groundbreaking fashion designers who create the items we choose to wear. 

The cut, creases, and colors should go beyond the purpose of just looking good. London-born fashion designer Grace Wales Bonner holds this value close. She is known for the distinctive designs of her eponymous label. 

You are unauthorized to view this page.